One House Left

Ralph (Secrets Never Die) puts a harrowing twist on a familiar tale of teens exploring urban legends in this grim and suspenseful horror novel. Sixteen-year-old new kid Nate Campbell has a plan for his first day at Montgomery-Oakes High: “keep quiet, small, easily ignored,” and turn away anyone who attempts to befriend him. That works until classmate Max and her friends ask Nate to join their club of misfits, the Hell Chasers. The teens share a passion for testing the reality of local myths, which Nate finds ironic, as he and his family used to live near Murder Road; as the location of numerous violent deaths over nearly a century, it has solidified into a terrifying legend. Together, the Hell Chasers investigate the tales of Murder Road by searching for its rumored patron, the Hiding Boy. But when they finally happen upon this demonic nightmare, it becomes clear that not all of them will make it out alive. As mystery and terror overlap, expectations are subverted, and character allegiances are altered. A romantic subplot somewhat lightens the pervasive gloomy atmosphere. Max has brown skin; most other characters read as white. Ages 13–up. Agent: Pete Knapp, Park & Fine Literary. (Aug.)